My intuition likes 124 gr. 9mm over 147 gr., but feel free to discuss, if you like. Also, a gratuitous comment about standard or +P never hurt anyone. I currently shoot 124 gr. +P Ranger T and will prolly go with GD's next time if I can't find Winchesters.
Thanks.

September 3rd, 2008, 06:30 PM

farronwolf

Do the 124's work in your gun reliably? Is your gun rated for +P ammo, if so, then your good to go.

Use what your gun is rated for and what works reliably. Those are two of the most important factors. Learn to shoot what you carry.

There is only 30lbs of energy difference between the Ranger T +P and the GD +P in the 124 gr. Both manufacturers have good reputations for defensive rounds.

Basically if your using a proven round it boils down to a matter of choice. My choice is the Speer over Win Ranger because they are available more places, but in standard pressures.

September 3rd, 2008, 08:04 PM

173ABN

I went from 147 Golden Sabers to 124's, more controllable and never saw a big benefit of +P. 23 grains is not a big difference, and 147 is slower.less controllable. I think the extra FPS of 124 makes for a better expansion too.

September 3rd, 2008, 08:28 PM

digitalexplr

I carry Federal HST 147grs. Accurate and great ballistic reports. I've considered the 124's, but the 147's have better penetration.

September 4th, 2008, 07:17 AM

coffeecup

IMHO a heavier bullet defeats the strong point of the 9mm---speed.

September 4th, 2008, 08:21 AM

Reborn

I'm kind of "Can you hit what you are aiming at ?" If you can put a couple of holes in your target. I don't get real hung up on the weight. That my nickels worth.

I carry the 124 g HSTs in a 3in barrel XD9SC. I recognize I'm giving up velocity for the benefits of the shorter barrel, so slowing down even more with the heavier projectile seems a move in the wrong direction. More velocity will increase the chance of deforming the metal and maximizing permanent would channel. For the 9mm, the velocity argument has some weight.